HyperloopTT says UAE route plan is 'subject to careful study'

Developer says its proposed high speed transport system requires 'extensive regulatory review and approval'

A mock-up of a HyperloopTT capsule. Hyperloop Transportation Technologies
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Hyperloop Transportation Technologies has sought to clarify its plans for a high-speed transport service in the UAE. The US-based developer said in a statement it had signed an agreement to start construction of a hyperloop system and visitor centre in Abu Dhabi, but stressed that its many details still under consideration.

"The proposed construction site is located on the border of the Emirates of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, close to the Expo 2020 site and Al Maktoum International Airport", the company said in a statement, "however, any further development of the HyperloopTT system is subject to careful study and extensive regulatory review and approval.

The company said it was "working to address any confusion surrounding last week’s announcement.”

HyperloopTT and Aldar Properties had said earlier this month that it had signed "an historic agreement for the world's first commercial Hyperloop system of 10km in a critical development area between Abu Dhabi and Dubai". The deal gave the go-ahead for construction to start at Alghadeer, the residential development near the border with Dubai.

On Thursday, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai denied the suggestion of a possible link between Abu Dhabi and Al Maktoum International Airport, and said there is "no specific route" for a high-speed link between Dubai and other emirates.